To cultivate cannabis, growers are constantly seeking innovative techniques to enhance their yield and produce high-quality crops. One such technique that has gained popularity in recent years is growing with the use of a light deprivation tarp.
“The key aspects of this cultivation approach require maintaining a consistent schedule, controlling moisture, and ensuring that you have the right plastic sheeting to block light,” says plastic sheeting expert and Americover account manager Jason Treiger. Read more to learn about the benefits of this method, along with some of the most common challenges it presents.
Solutions for Six Common Light Deprivation Tarp Growing Challenges
We’ve been working with cannabis farmers for almost a decade now, originally partnering with master grower Ed Rosenthal to create the ultimate light deprivation tarp solution that could last the long hot summer being dragged back and forth over a greenhouse. Straight from our cannabis farmers, below are a few ways to combat common challenges they’ve experienced on the farm with light deprivation.
Creating a Consistent Schedule
Timing is crucial when it comes to light deprivation in greenhouse growing. Most cannabis yields require a rotation for 12 hours in light deprivation and 12 hours in sunlight. This light cycle is impossible to replicate consistently without using a light deprivation tarp.
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Preventing Light Leak
To achieve the desired results, it is vital to invest in a reliable light deprivation tarp. Light leaks can disrupt the light cycle. Since punctures and tears can compromise the success of your entire crop, it is crucial to invest in a light deprivation tarp that is puncture resistant and UV resistant.
On windy days, secure the tarp to prevent it from billowing or blowing off. You can use something heavy to weigh down the sides such as plywood, soil bags, or tubes filled with water.
Controlling Moisture and Temperature
In environments with high humidity or frequent rainfall, moisture control becomes a critical aspect of light deprivation greenhouse growing. Proper ventilation is essential to prevent excessive humidity which can rot your crops.
Adequate airflow helps maintain optimal temperature and humidity levels. Growers seeking a more controlled environment might consider using dehumidifiers, heaters, and other automatic systems.
Harvesting on Time
Harvesting at the right time is paramount to achieving the desired potency and flavor profiles of your cannabis crop. With light deprivation greenhouse growing, you have the advantage of controlling the flowering process.
By carefully monitoring the plants and adhering to the light schedule, you can ensure a timely harvest, maximizing the quality and yield of your buds, and if done right, you can even go to market earlier.
Properly Curing Your Crop
After harvesting, the journey to exceptional cannabis doesn’t end. Properly curing your buds is a crucial step to enhance their flavor, aroma, and overall quality.
Light deprivation is also essential during the drying process to stop the plants from flowering. By gradually reducing the moisture content and allowing the buds to cure in controlled conditions, you can unlock their full potential and extend their shelf life.
Choosing the Right Cover: Bold vs. Panda
Greenhouse growing, especially for crops on a light/deprivation cycle, requires a specific plastic sheeting. While panda film (black/white film) is a common choice for traditional greenhouse applications, it may not be suitable for light deprivation greenhouses.
BOLD® Black Out Light Deprivation Tarp, designed explicitly for light deprivation purposes, offers superior light-blocking properties while being sturdy enough to maintain its quality throughout the growing season.
Trusted by Growers, Builders, and Distributors
Americover is the smart source for plastic and polyethylene sheeting. Trusted by contractors and distributors across the construction and agriculture industries, our American-made products combine reliability with quality and innovation.
As an Americover customer, you will receive the personalized support of a dedicated account manager to simplify the ordering process and ensure the best solution for every one of your projects. Our friendly, knowledgeable staff is here to answer your questions and fulfill orders Monday-Friday from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Pacific Standard Time. Call us at 760-388-6294 or contact us to speak to a plastic sheeting representative.